Coconut Oil Extraction by a New Enzymatic Process

Abstract

A new method for coconut oil extraction based on the enzymatic action of polygalacturonases, α‐amylase and proteases on a diluted coconut paste was developed. After reaction with enzymes, the solution was centrifuged resulting in three phases: the upper one containing a high quality coconut oil; the middle layer containing water; and the lower phase consisting of coconut meal which has been traditionally used in cattle feed. Eighty percent yields were obtained by this method which was advantageous from the energy point of view compared to the traditional process. Copyright © 1986, Wiley Blackwell. All rights reserved